U.S. patent application number 10/630620 was filed with the patent office on 2004-04-22 for controller for automatically manipulating a horn signal for navigational purposes.
This patent application is currently assigned to TSX Products, Corp.. Invention is credited to Andrews, Richard, McCulley, Richard JR., Vogel, David A..
Application Number | 20040075587 10/630620 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 31191301 |
Filed Date | 2004-04-22 |
United States Patent
Application |
20040075587 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Vogel, David A. ; et
al. |
April 22, 2004 |
Controller for automatically manipulating a horn signal for
navigational purposes
Abstract
A system and method for a horn controller is provided that
automatically operates a vessel's horn as a foghorn. The horn
controller automatically causes the vessel's horn to sound
according to the proper foghorn sounding schedule. The horn
controller is designed to be installed in a new vessel, and/or to
be retrofitted to an existing vessel.
Inventors: |
Vogel, David A.; (Westwood,
MA) ; Andrews, Richard; (Bellingham, MA) ;
McCulley, Richard JR.; (Roslindale, MA) |
Correspondence
Address: |
Charles N.J. Ruggiero, Esq.
Ohlandt, Greeley, Ruggiero & Perl, L.L.P.
10th Floor
One Landmark Square
Stamford
CT
06901-2682
US
|
Assignee: |
TSX Products, Corp.
|
Family ID: |
31191301 |
Appl. No.: |
10/630620 |
Filed: |
July 30, 2003 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
|
|
|
|
|
|
Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
60399763 |
Jul 31, 2002 |
|
|
|
60444435 |
Feb 3, 2003 |
|
|
|
Current U.S.
Class: |
340/985 ;
340/384.3; 340/388.1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
B63B 49/00 20130101;
B63B 2045/005 20130101; B63B 45/08 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
340/985 ;
340/384.3; 340/388.1 |
International
Class: |
G08G 003/00 |
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. A controller for cooperating with a vessel's existing horn to
automatically generate sound navigational signals, said controller
comprising: an installation-type detector for determining a
controller installation type; a user interface with a mode selector
having one or more mode settings; and a microprocessor for
communicating with said mode selector and said horn to facilitate
the selective control of said horn.
2. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller is activated
by said mode selector.
3. The controller of claim 2, wherein said installation-type
detector determines said controller installation type when said
controller is activated.
4. The controller of claim 3, wherein said installation type is for
parallel signaling for blast pattern selection.
5. The controller of claim 4, wherein said microprocessor is
activated by said controller when said mode selector is set in one
of said one or more mode settings.
6. The controller of claim 5, wherein said microprocessor
determines which of said one or more mode settings has been
selected.
7. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller is activated
by a vessel's existing controls.
8. The controller of claim 7, wherein said installation-type
detector determines said controller installation type when said
controller is activated.
9. The controller of claim 8, wherein said installation type is for
serial signaling for blast pattern selection.
10. The controller of claim 9, wherein said microprocessor is
activated by said controller when said mode selector is set in one
of said one or more mode settings.
11. The controller of claim 10, wherein said microprocessor
cooperates with said vessel's existing controls to determine which
of said one or more mode settings has been selected.
12. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller cooperates
with a timing for ensuring said sound navigational signals are
properly timed and/or spaced.
13. The controller of claim 12, wherein said timing system is a
separate component separate from said microprocessor.
14. The controller of claim 12, wherein said timing system is part
of said microprocessor.
15. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller is
programmable to support a variety of different mode selections
and/or any combinations thereof.
16. The controller of claim 1, wherein said random number generator
is part of said microprocessor.
17. The controller of claim 1, wherein said random number generator
is a computer software program for said micro processor.
18. The controller of claim 1, further comprising a random number
generator.
19. The controller of claim 18, wherein said random number
generator adds a random or a pseudo random time length to a base
period of time between said sound navigational signals.
20. The controller of claim 19, wherein said added random or pseudo
random time length provides anti-synchronization for preventing any
overlapping of sound navigational signals between different
vessels.
21. The controller of claim 19, wherein said random number
generator operates independent of any innate variability associated
with different components.
22. The controller of claim 19, wherein said random or pseudo
random time length is in a range of 0 seconds to 120 seconds less
said base period of time.
23. The controller of claim 22, wherein the sum of said pseudo
random time length and said base period does not exceed 120
seconds.
24. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller has a
power/sail type detecting circuit.
25. The controller of claim 24, wherein said power/sail type
detecting circuit is selectively connectable to a power source+for
a vessel under power and/or a power source for a vessel under
sail.
26. The controller of claim 25, wherein said controller has a
miswire protection circuit for protecting said controller from
improper installation.
27. The controller of claim 1, wherein said microprocessor has
memory to store controller software.
28. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller has a
brownout protection circuit for causing a reset signal of said
microprocessor to be asserted when the power supply falls below a
predetermined level.
29. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller has a relay
driver circuit for controlling a relay electrically connected to
said existing navigational controls.
30. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller has a
pre-signal warning feature.
31. The controller of claim 30, wherein said pre-signal warning is
an audible signal.
32. The controller of claim 30, wherein said pre-signal warning is
a visual signal.
33. The controller of claim 24, wherein said power/sail type
detecting circuit is monitored by said microprocessor to determine
any change in status.
34. The controller of claim 1, wherein said controller has an
automated distress signal feature.
35. The controller of claim 34, wherein said distress signal
feature has a predetermined signal pattern.
36. The controller of claim 35, wherein said signal pattern is the
Morse code SOS pattern.
37. The controller of claim 35, wherein said signal pattern has a
cycle or frequency step down feature.
38. The controller of claim 1, wherein said microprocessor can
reply with an acknowledgement to interaction detected from an
operator.
40. The controller of claim 1, wherein a vessel's existing controls
are used to activate said controller and to select one or more
signal settings.
41. A method for automatically generating sound navigational
signals comprising the steps of: providing a horn or a signaling
device, said signaling device having a controller having an
installation-type detector for determining a controller
installation type, a user interface with a mode selector having one
or more mode settings, and a microprocessor for communicating with
said mode selector and said horn to facilitate the selective
control of said horn to generate sound navigational signals;
activating said controller via said mode selector of said user
interface; initializing said microprocessor via said mode selector;
determining controller installation type via said installation-type
detector; determining which of said mode settings has been selected
via said microprocessor; and generating sound navigational signals
via said horn in accordance with said selected mode.
42. The method of claim 41, further comprising a step of performing
a self test is implemented after said step of initializing of said
microprocessor and prior to said step of determining controlling
installation type.
43. The method of claim 41, further comprising a step of
determining whether said controller is cooperating with a vessel
under sail or a vessel under power is implemented after said step
of determining which of said mode settings has been selected and
prior to said step of generating sound navigational signals.
44. The method of claim 41, further comprising a step of providing
a pre-signal warning to be implemented after said step of
determining which of said mode settings has been selected and prior
to said step of generating sound navigational signals.
45. The method of claim 44, wherein said pre-signal warning is an
audio signal, a visual signal or a combination thereof.
46. The method of claim 41, further comprising a step of providing
a delay for a base time period following said step of generating
sound navigational signals.
47. The method of claim 46, further comprising supplying a random
time delay by a random number generator and adding to said base
time period.
48. The method of claim 47, further comprising a step of repeating
said sound navigational signal in accordance with said mode
selector to be implemented after said step of adding said random
time delay to said base time period.
Description
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0001] 1. Field of the Invention
[0002] The present invention relates to a marine navigational aid
for providing sound navigational signals. More particularly, the
present invention relates to an economic controller for
automatically manipulating sound navigational signals generated by
a vessel's horn and for providing a pre-signal warning.
[0003] 2. Description of the Prior Art
[0004] While operating marine vessels in limited visibility
situations, like fog, the Navigation Rule International Inland,
COMDTINST M16672.2D (commonly referred to as 72 COLREGS or simply
COLREGS), in Rule 35--Sound Signals in Restricted Visibility,
require sounding audible signals according to a predetermined
schedule. Normally, the audible signals are produced by a vessel's
navigational horn, whistle, or dedicated foghorn. For example, a
power vessel over 12 meters in length, making its way through the
water is required to sound a horn signaling pattern of "one
prolonged blast" at intervals of not more than 2 minutes. A power
vessel stopped and not making way through the water is required to
sound a horn signaling pattern of "two prolonged blasts" at
intervals of not more than 2 minutes, with an interval of about 2
seconds between the two prolonged blasts. A vessel engaged in
fishing, sailing vessels, vessels with restricted ability to
maneuver, and towing vessels are required to sound a horn signaling
pattern of "one prolonged followed by two short blasts". A vessel
being towed is required to sound a horn signaling pattern of "one
prolonged followed by three short blasts".
[0005] Additionally, there are horn signaling patterns unrelated to
situations of limited visibility. Distress signals can be either a
continuous blast or a
short-short-short-long-long-long-short-short-short (SOS pattern). A
momentary (i.e. non-repeating) pattern of short-long-short blasts
is defined to warn vessels approaching a vessel at anchor.
[0006] Although the COLREGS do not require vessels under 12 meters
in length to blast the precise patterns described above, they do
require an "efficient sound signal at intervals of not more than
two minutes". Current practice, (except for some hailers with
foghorn capability) especially on smaller vessels, is to manually
blast a vessel's existing navigational horn or whistle, and time
the blasts manually, for example, using a stopwatch. There is a
possibility that errors in timing and in sounding the proper
signals may occur when these operations are performed manually.
[0007] Once a foghorn signal is heard, nearby vessels will listen
for subsequent blasts to determine whether the unseen vessel is
approaching or receding. Thus, the timing of the signals is
critical to the safety of vessels operating in conditions of
limited visibility.
[0008] Vessel captains operating alone or with a limited crew may
have difficulty in maintaining a proper foghorn schedule due to
other tasks that must be performed when operating the vessel,
including maintaining lookouts and monitoring navigational
instrumentation.
[0009] Few vessels used for recreation and recreational fishing
have foghorn capability today due to the additional cost and space
required to install an additional horn and control panel.
[0010] The present invention provides for a device and method that
addresses the above-identified limitations. The present invention
automatically causes the vessel's existing navigational horn to
sound according to a proper schedule. The present invention will be
described with reference to a horn, however, the present invention
may be utilized with any suitable audible signaling device, such as
a whistle or dedicated foghorn. The device of the present invention
is designed to be installed in a new vessel, or to be retrofitted
to an existing vessel.
[0011] Depending upon the installation type, the present invention
may require no additional horn or whistle. One installation
configuration makes use of the existing navigational horn and horn
switch, while the other configuration also has an additional horn
signaling pattern mode selector.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0012] It is an object of the present invention to provide a
controller for cooperating with a vessel's existing horn to
automatically generate sound navigational signals.
[0013] It is another object of the present invention to provide a
controller that automatically operates a vessel's horn to generate
sound navigational signals that comply with accepted standardized
schedules for operating in limited visibility situations, and/or in
conditions of limited control (e.g. towed vessel).
[0014] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a controller that allows the selection of at least two
different modes of signaling.
[0015] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a controller having an anti-synchronization feature for
manipulating the time span between horn signals to prevent any
overlapping thereof with horn signals generated by different
vessels.
[0016] It is yet still another object of the present invention to
provide a controller that efficiently and economically cooperates
with different existing horns in a variety of different
vessels.
[0017] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
controller that is configurable in two or more installation
modes.
[0018] It is still a further object of the present invention to
provide a controller that does not interfere with the normal
operation of a vessel's existing horn.
[0019] It is yet a further object of the present invention to
provide a controller that has failure modes that do not interfere
with a vessel's existing horn and/or light system.
[0020] It is yet another object of the present invention to provide
a controller that is simply installed to protect against
unintentional wiring mistakes.
[0021] It is still another object of the present invention to
provide a controller that is economical and compact to efficiently
cooperate with new and/or existing horn systems.
[0022] It is yet still another object of the present invention to
provide a controller that has a pre-signal warning feature for
reducing or eliminating some of the negative effects associated
with horn signaling.
[0023] It is a further object of the present invention to provide a
controller that recognizes, on the fly, whether a power/sail
detecting circuit setting has been changed and modifies, as
appropriate, the blast or signal pattern accordingly.
[0024] It is still a further object of the present invention to
provide a controller suitable for providing a distress signal.
[0025] These and other objects and advantages of the present
invention are achieved by a controller having an installation-type
detector, a user interface with a mode selector, a microprocessor,
a random number generator, and a timing system (e.g., electronic
clock or timer). The controller cooperates with a vessel's horn to
adjustably and/or automatically support one or more horn signaling
pattern requirements of different vessels and for different
situations.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0026] The above and other objects, advantages and benefits of the
present invention will be understood by reference to the detailed
description provided below as well as the accompanying
drawings.
[0027] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a controller in accordance with
an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a controller circuit for the
controller of FIG. 1; and
[0029] FIGS. 3A through 3D are a logic diagram in accordance with
an illustrative embodiment of the present invention.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0030] Referring now to the drawings, and in particular to FIG. 1,
there is shown an illustrative embodiment of the present invention
that has a horn controller generally represented by reference
numeral 10. Controller 10 preferably has an installation-type
detector 22, a user interface with a mode selector 14, a
microprocessor 12 with a random number generator 20, and a timing
system 18. The controller 10 cooperates with a vessel's horn,
whistle, and/or dedicated foghorn 16 to adjustably and/or
automatically sound a horn signaling pattern. Controller 10
preferably cooperates with microprocessor 12 to selectively sound
horn 16 according to a specified mode or setting. The time period
between the horn signals may be varied based on a delay time
inserted by random number generator 20.
[0031] The activation of controller 10 depends on the type of
installation employed. For example, if the installation type uses
parallel signals for blast pattern selection (Type-A) as from a
multi-position switch, controller 10 is activated by setting mode
selector 14 to an "ON" position. Thus, by using parallel inputs
from dedicated switches, the Type-A installation is well suited for
new boat construction. Whereas, if the installation type is for
serial signals for blast pattern selection (Type-B), as from
multiple presses of a single switch, controller 10 can be activated
using existing navigation lights or dedicated switch settings
and/or a series of horn button presses when the navigation lights
or dedicated power switch are turned on. In some embodiments of the
present invention, Type-A and Type-B pattern selections can be
mixed such that some patterns are selected by parallel means from a
dedicated switch, and others by serial means. Thus, by using serial
inputs from dedicated switches, the Type-B installation is well
suited for retrofit construction.
[0032] Once controller 10 is activated, an installation type
detector 22 determines the installation type of controller 10.
[0033] Mode selector 14 may be set to a number of positions that
include an OFF position, and any one of a number of ON positions
that represents different horn sounding patterns. When mode
selector 14 is set in one of the active sounding positions,
controller 10 will activate the microprocessor 12. For example, two
modes of operation of controller 10 are possible for one embodiment
of the present invention including only: Stopped and Underway.
[0034] In a Type-A installation, a separate mode selector 14 is
required and the selector may be an "ON-OFF-ON" switch. Mode
selector 14 may be set by the operator from the OFF position to
either one of the ON operation modes. As discussed above, setting
mode selector 14 to either ON position activates controller 10. For
example, the first ON setting will be for the Stopped mode, while
the second ON setting will be for the Underway mode.
[0035] After controller 10 is activated, microprocessor 12
determines which mode setting has been selected by mode selector
14. If for example, mode selector 14 is set to the Underway
position, microprocessor 12 will activate the vessel's horn 16
according to the requirements for a vessel Underway. If mode
selector 14 is set to the Stopped position, horn 16 will be
activated according to the requirements for a Stopped vessel. In
this embodiment of the invention, controller 10 stays in the ON
mode until powered off. Changing the mode from Stopped to Underway
or vice versa is accomplished through the same power up sequence
since changing the mode requires the setting of mode selector 14 to
be turned through the OFF position.
[0036] In a Type-B installation, controller 10 powers up with any
"on" mode of the existing navigation lights switch and
microprocessor 12 monitors the horn button for a limited time for
an indication of the mode selection. The mode selection may be
based on presses of the horn button by the operator. For example,
no button press of horn indicates no horn signaling. One button
press of horn may indicate the Underway mode, and two button
presses of horn may indicate the Stopped mode. Numerous horn press
commands may be programmed into the microprocessor 12 to support
any number of different mode selection settings for controller 10.
The microprocessor 12 may also reply with an acknowledgement of the
number of horn presses detected from the operator. The
acknowledgement may be in the form of a short acknowledge signal or
blast via horn 16, a flashing light, and/or other suitable
audible/visible signal.
[0037] In other embodiments, it is anticipated that the horn press
signal could be generated by a mode selector 14 that is other than
the horn switch. This embodiment allows for a larger number of
patterns that would be supported by a more sophisticated user
interface while preserving the mode selector interface to
controller 10.
[0038] In mixed Type-A and Type-B installation, the dedicated mode
selector 14 may be set by the operator to one of its indicated
blast pattern modes, however, the setting can be overridden by
receipt of Type-B signaling within a limited time period of being
activated. This mixed mode allows for the most frequently used
patterns being selected by dedicated switches and the less
frequently used patterns being selected serially with the vessel's
horn.
[0039] Controller 10 may include a timing system 18, such as an
electronic clock or timer. Timing system 18 may be a separate
component or may be part of microprocessor 12. Timing system 18 may
be used to ensure that horn 16 is activated for the proper time
period and to ensure the delays between the blasts are properly
spaced.
[0040] Controller 10 may be installed in a power vessel or a
sailboat configuration. For the Power Vessel configuration in the
Stopped mode, two blasts are issued. Each blast is four seconds
long separated by a two second interval. In the Underway mode, one
four second blast is issued. The horn signaling pattern, for either
mode, is repeated periodically until the power is removed. For the
sailing vessel configuration, the horn signaling pattern is the
same regardless of whether the vessel is underway or stopped. This
horn signaling pattern is a long blast followed by two short (one
second) blasts.
[0041] Controller 10 may be programmed to support different numbers
of mode selections and horn signaling patterns. For example,
different horn signaling patterns may be required for
international, inland, or offshore signaling. In addition, COLREGS
audible signaling requirements may be changed. Controller 10 may
support horn signaling pattern requirements of different vessels
for numerous types of situation as required.
[0042] Controller 10 may include the random number generator 20. In
another embodiment of the invention, the random number generator 20
may be part of microprocessor 12. In yet another embodiment of the
invention, the random number generator 20 may be provided as a
computer software program for microcontroller 12.
[0043] The random number generator 20 may add a random or pseudo
random time length to the base period of time between the horn
signaling pattern by microprocessor 12. The addition of a random
time length helps to prevent a situation in which two nearby
vessels have their horns blasting on a synchronized schedule,
causing the vessels to miss hearing each other's blast because
their own blast was masking the blast of the other vessel. Random
number generator 20 does not depend on the variability of
components or other techniques in which the randomness of the
pattern is not guaranteed.
[0044] The silent interval between the horn signaling patterns
preferably never exceeds 120 seconds. The length of the silent
interval is determined by adding together a fixed base time and a
random or pseudo random time interval. For example, a base time of
103 seconds could be added to a pseudo random time ranging from 0
to 17 seconds. Preferably, the base time is selected for each horn
signaling pattern such that when added to the maximum random or
pseudo random time, the sum does not exceed a preferable two (2)
minute maximum interval specified by the COLREGS.
[0045] The random number generator 20 may be in the form of
software that provides a pseudo random number generator function
with a sequence of sufficient period that the sequence repeats only
after a period of hours of operation. For example, assuming an
average cycle time of 116.5 seconds (the average of 113 seconds and
120 seconds) a 128 step pattern would repeat about every 4.14
hours.
[0046] In another embodiment of the present invention, the random
number generator 20 is preferably not required and the silent
interval between horn signaling patterns is preferably not varied,
and set to a specific base time (e.g., 120 seconds).
[0047] Referring to FIG. 2, a block diagram of one illustrative
embodiment of a horn controller circuit 30 of controller 10 is
shown. The horn controller circuit 30 preferably has a installation
type detect circuit 51 that allows software running in a
microprocessor 38 to determine how the controller 10 was installed
(either Type-A or Type-B).
[0048] If the "Installation Type" wire leading to the circuit is
left unconnected (floating) or is connected to power source+, the
controller 10 operates in the Type-B installation configuration
that using the horn button presses or other serial means for
selecting the horn signaling pattern or blast pattern mode. If the
"Installation Type" wire is connected to power source-, the
controller 10 operates in the Type-A installation configuration,
which requires a separate blast pattern mode selector 34 for
specifying the horn signaling pattern. Mode blast pattern selector
34 serves two functions: power on/off, and selection of the mode of
operation of the desired horn signaling pattern.
[0049] When the blast pattern mode selector 34 is in the OFF
position, no power is provided to the controller 10 and it remains
inoperative.
[0050] When the blast pattern mode selector 34 is not in the OFF
position, the mode horn signaling pattern selection circuit 35
allows the software running in the microprocessor 38 to determine
the setting (mode of operation) of mode horn signaling pattern
selector. In a Type-A installation, for example, the setting is
determined by the dedicated switch setting. In a Type-B
installation, for example, the setting is determined by the pattern
of horn button presses.
[0051] Although generally referred to as a switch in the Type-A
installation, the blast pattern mode selector 34 is not constrained
to be a simple mechanical switch. The blast pattern mode selector
34 may be of any arbitrary complexity and may signal microprocessor
12 by digital signaling, different DC voltage levels, frequency
encoding, or other electronics. Because the recommended horn
signaling patterns differ for vessels under power and vessels under
sail, power/sail detecting circuit 32 signals microprocessor 38 to
select the correct pattern based on the power/sail detect circuit
setting. The power/sail detecting circuit 32 can be monitored by
the microprocessor 38 on the fly or continuously to determine if
the setting has changed from power to sail or from sail to power.
If a change in setting has occurred microprocessor 38 will change
the blast pattern accordingly.
[0052] In one embodiment of the present invention, the power/sail
detect circuit 32 may be connected directly to the power source+or
left unconnected for a vessel under power, or connected the power
source for a vessel always under sail.
[0053] In another embodiment, the power/sail detect circuit 32 may
be a switch that allows the user to switch between the power and
sail horn signaling patterns. This is useful for vessels that
operate both under power and under sail.
[0054] A power source 36 provides power to the controller 10. A
battery may act as the power source 36. Alternatively, the power
source 36 may be a generator or a 12-volt or other DC converter.
The power source 36 supplies a nominal voltage sufficient to power
the controller 10 and the horn 54.
[0055] The two installation modes supported by controller 10 allow
non-professional installers to retrofit the controller onto their
vessels. A miswire protection circuit 40 is designed to prevent
damage to the controller 10 should the connection to the power
source be reversed.
[0056] The microprocessor or microcontroller 38 has memory to store
the controller software. Under software control, the microprocessor
38 determines the installation type, the vessel type (power or
sail), the horn signaling pattern mode of operation, and performs
all of the timing and control necessary to operate controller
10.
[0057] A voltage regulator circuit 42 is used to provide a
regulated voltage for use internally in the controller 10. A
brownout protection circuit 46 causes the reset signal of the
microprocessor 38 to be asserted when the +5 volt supply dips below
a preset level at which the operation of the microprocessor is
unpredictable. This will halt operation in the event of a voltage
brownout condition. When the voltage re-stabilizes, controller 10
will reset. A relay driver circuit 48 is used to control a relay
49. The two contacts of the relay 49 may be wired in parallel with
an existing horn button or existing horn switch 53. Actuating relay
49 provides the same effect as pressing the existing horn button
53, namely to sound horn 54.
[0058] The existing horn button 53 may operate independently of the
controller 10 to allow the operator to sound the horn 54 as needed
regardless of whether the controller is powered OFF or set in one
of its horn signaling pattern modes.
[0059] A button press detect circuit 52 is used to determine if
existing horn button 53 is being pressed.
[0060] In one embodiment of the Type-B installation where the
existing navigation lights switch is used as the blast pattern mode
selector 34, the controller 10 is powered when the navigation
lights are in use. The navigation lights may need to be used
without operating the foghorn such as on a fogless night. In this
circumstance, the controller 10 must determine if the horn 54
should be used as a foghorn. To do this, the controller 10 checks
the state of the horn button 53 after being powered up. The
controller 10 may be powered by the navigation lights or a
dedicated power switch. If the horn button 53 is pressed within
some defined limited time period after the controller 10 is powered
up, the controller 10 operates the horn 54 normally as a foghorn in
the selected blast pattern mode.
[0061] In other embodiments of the Type-B installation of the
present invention, the user may select the type of horn signaling
pattern by initially pressing the horn button 53 during the power
up of the controller 10. For example, pressing the horn button 53
once could signal the microprocessor 38 to sound the horn signaling
pattern for the Underway mode. For example, pressing the horn
button 53 twice could signal the microprocessor 38 to sound the
horn signaling pattern for a Stopped mode. The horn pressing mode
selection method may be extended to support any arbitrary number of
patterns.
[0062] It is anticipated that more sophisticated user interfaces
might be used to select from a larger number of horn blast
patterns. The simple pulse counting method used for counting horn
button can be extended to count pulses created by an off-board
pattern selector.
[0063] Referring now to FIGS. 3A to 3D, a logic diagram 70 shows
the operational steps of the system and method of the present
invention. In other embodiments, the patterns described earlier
would be implemented by extending the mode selector 14, and
branching down the logic paths 102 and 114 to sound the alternate
patterns. As shown in FIGS. 3A to 3D, the following steps may be
followed by the microprocessor 38 during the operation of the
controller 10 of the present invention. The diagram 70 details
operation for the controller 10, which supports the Stopped and
Underway horn signaling pattern modes.
[0064] The controller 10 may be activated in one of two ways by
turning the mode selector 14 on for the Type-A installation, or by
a series of horn button presses at the time the navigation lights
are turned on for the Type-B installation. Horn controller
activation is shown in logic block 72 of FIG. 3A.
[0065] After the controller 10 is activated, the next step is to
initialize the microprocessor 38 as shown in block 74. The
initialization of the microprocessor 38 may include the
configuration of I/O pins, the turning off of the relay, system
integrity check, and the initialization of a random number
generator.
[0066] Following initialization, an internal counter is checked to
determine whether a manufacturing self test 76 is to be performed.
This counter may be connected to a product integrity test
oscillator 55, which may be a laboratory frequency generator or
other oscillator, connected to the installation type detect circuit
input 56. The counter is configured to count transitions from a
logical 0 to a logical 1. Following a pre-determined delay, the
value of the counter is read. If the value contained in the counter
is within a certain range, the microprocessor 38 enters the self
test mode 120. If the counter value falls outside of the range, the
microprocessor 38 proceeds with normal operation as shown at 78.
This self test feature is valuable for allowing the device to
self-test itself outside the vessel installation (such as a
manufacturing test) by simply applying a specified frequency square
wave (from the connected oscillator 55) to the installation type
detect circuit input 56.
[0067] If the self test is not performed as shown in the logic
block 76, the block 78 reads the installation type of the
controller 10. Blocks 82 and 83 determine the mode horn signaling
pattern for Type-A installations and block 86 determines the mode
horn signaling pattern for Type-B installations. As shown in block
80, the installation type is determined. It may be either a Type-A
installation or a Type-B installation.
[0068] If a Type-A installation is determined or detected, the horn
press signal is preferably monitored at 83. It is at this point
that an SOS mode 85 may be selected via a predetermined horn press
signal pattern (e.g., five presses). If SOS mode 85 is not selected
during the limited period provided for detecting such, the vessel
type (i.e., power or sail) is determined at block 92. If a Type-B
installation is detected, the horn press signal is monitored at 86
to determine whether this is a horn initialization, or not. If
there is no horn press signal for a limited time period for a
Type-B installation, the microprocessor 38 halts or shuts down the
controller 10 as shown in block 88. Also, as with the Type-A
installation, an SOS mode 85 may be selected at this point via a
predetermined horn press signal pattern (e.g., five presses). If
SOS mode 85 is not selected during the limited period provided for
detecting such, and if horn press activity is detected, the horn
press activity is acknowledged at block 89 and the logic path joins
that of the Type-A installation and checks for whether it is a
power or sail vessel as shown in block 92.
[0069] If block 92 determines that the vessel is a vessel under
sail, the next step is block 94. If block 92 determines that the
vessel is a power vessel, the next step is block 96. Blocks 96 and
94 indicate that the next logic blocks are shown in FIGS. 3B and
3C, respectively.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 3B, logic blocks are shown corresponding
to a power boat configuration. After block 96 of FIG. 3A, the next
step is shown in block 98. The blast mode is determined as shown in
block 98. The blast mode is determined from the setting of mode
selector 34 (a switch setting for a Type-A installation, or the
navigation lights switch setting and/or series of horn presses for
a Type-B installation, or either switch setting or horn press for a
mixed Type A/B installation). If a Stopped pattern is selected, it
is sounded as shown in block 100. If an Underway pattern is
selected, it is sounded as shown in block 104. Other embodiments
may select the other less used patterns, and when detected would be
sounded 102.
[0071] The next step is to delay for the base time period as shown
in block 106. A random time delay period supplied by a random
number generator may then be added to the base time as shown in
block 108. At this point an on the fly determination of whether
there has been a change in the vessel operation mode (i.e., from
power to sail) as shown in block 109. If it is determined in block
109 via power/sail detecting circuit 32 that no change has occurred
(i.e., vessel remains in power mode), the next step is to then
return to block 98 and repeat the horn signaling pattern sequence.
If it is determined in block 109 via power/sail detecting circuit
32 that the vessel's operation mode has changed from power to sail,
the next step is block 111, which indicates that the next logic
blocks are shown in FIG. 3C.
[0072] If it is determined in block 92 of FIG. 3A that the vessel
is under sail, the next step is block 94. Referring to FIG. 3C, the
logic blocks for a sail boat configuration are shown. The blast
mode for a vessel under sail is determined as shown in block 110.
The blast mode is determined from the setting of the mode selector
34. If an Underway or Stopped pattern is detected (they are
identical for sailing vessels), the horn signaling pattern is
sounded as shown in block 112. Other embodiments of the controller
10 of the present invention may include additional mode selector
settings of other less used horn signaling patterns, and other
sound patterns as shown in block 114.
[0073] In the same manner as for power vessels, block 116 shows
that there is a delay for the base time period. A random time delay
period supplied by a random number generator may then be added to
the base time period as shown in block 118. At this point an on the
fly determination of whether there has been a change in the vessel
operation mode (i.e., from power to sail) as shown in block 119. If
it is determined in block 119 via power/sail detecting circuit 32
that no change has occurred (i.e., vessel remains in power mode),
the next step is to then return to block 110 and repeat the horn
signaling pattern sequence. If it is determined in block 119 via
power/sail detecting circuit 32 that the vessel's operation mode
has changed from power to sail, the next step is block 121, which
indicates that the next logic blocks are shown in FIG. 3B.
[0074] If the SOS mode 85 is selected during the limited period
provided for detecting such in the Type-A installation or the
Type-B installation, the next step is block 87. Block 87 indicates
that the next logic blocks are shown in FIG. 3D.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 3D, logic blocks are shown corresponding
to the generation of a distress signal. After block 87 of FIG. 3A,
the next step is shown in block 90. The sound distress pattern or
signal is provided as shown in block 90. The next step is to
determine whether the distress signal has been active for more than
30 minutes as shown in block 91. If the distress signal has been
active for less than 30 minutes, a delay or a silent period of
about 30 seconds as shown in block 93 is implemented and followed
by a return to block 90 and a repeat of the distress signal
pattern. If the distress signal has been active for more than 30
minutes, a delay or a silent period of about 120 seconds as shown
in block 95 is implemented and followed by a return to block 90 and
a repeat of the distress signal pattern.
[0076] Referring again to FIG. 1, the controller 10 may support a
number of different types of boat installations including a Type-A
and/or a Type-B installation. One embodiment of the present
invention allows for a Type-A installation, which requires a
separate mode selector 14 that may be a switch. This is the
preferred installation for new boat construction because it allows
use of the controller 10 independent of the navigational lights and
horn switch. The mode selector 14 may be set to
"Stopped-OFF-Underway" positions. Moving the mode selector 14
setting from OFF to either of the other two ON positions activates
the controller 10 and initiates operation of the horn 16. In other
embodiments of the invention, additional ON position settings may
be added to the mode selector 14 for more than two horn signaling
pattern selections in a Type-A installation.
[0077] For example, in other embodiments of the Type-A
installation, the "Stopped-OFF-Underway" switch may be replaced by
a multi-position switch, or other user interface with electronic
signaling to the microprocessor 12 to allow for more than two horn
signaling patterns.
[0078] An embodiment of the present invention permits a Type-B
installation, which is preferred for retrofitting the controller 10
to an existing boat or vessel. A Type-B installation uses the
existing navigation lights power switch or other dedicated power
switch in conjunction pressing the horn button as the mode selector
14 to select the mode of operation. Use of the navigation lights
power switch allows for retrofitting the controller 10 in existing
boats or vessels without requiring an additional switch on the
console (as required in a Type-A installation). In one embodiment
of a Type-B installation, turning on the navigation lights while
sounding a series of blasts of the vessel's horn using the existing
manual horn button or switch activates the controller 10. The
controller 10 senses whether the Stopped or Underway navigation
lights are on and how many horn blasts occurred and operates horn
16 in the corresponding mode.
[0079] For both Type-A and Type-B installations, manual control of
the vessel's horn 16 bypasses the controller 10, and thus, will
always override the controller 10. Manual bypassing of the horn 16
does not turn off the controller 10, it will continue sounding the
horn 16 on its regular period.
[0080] In another embodiment of the present invention, the mode
selector 14 may include additional settings that will activate the
horn 16 according to other COLREGS requirements, e.g., a vessel not
under command (one prolonged blast followed by two short blasts), a
towed vessel (one prolonged blast followed by three short blasts),
or a vessel at anchor (one short blast, one prolonged blast, one
short blast). In another embodiment of the present invention, the
mode selector 14 may include settings and outputs to activate a
bell in addition to the horn, whistle or dedicated foghorn. Bell
sounding patterns are different from the horn patterns.
[0081] It is noted with respect to the distress signal feature
discussed above with respect to FIG. 3D that although the COLREGS
Rule 37 does not require a specific signal or blast pattern for
distress signaling, it does require that a vessel "sound foghorn
continuously". This requirement for continuous sounding can have a
negative effect on a vessel's horn such as overheating, which can
cause the horn to temporarily stop operating and can eventually
lead to more permanent damage. Accordingly, the distress signal
feature of the present invention sounds in a step down frequency
method. That is, the distress signal sounds almost continually for
an initial period of a few minutes to attract immediate attention
to the distress situation. Following this initial period the
frequency of the signal steps down to sound only periodically at a
first interval, such as for example, every minute or so, and then
down again to sound at a second interval, such as for example,
every two minutes or so. This signal frequency step down allows the
horn to remain cool and thereby preserves the useful life
thereof.
[0082] In still another embodiment of the present invention, the
controller 10 has an optional pre-signal warning feature. For
example, an audible and/or a visual signal may be used to mitigate
the unpleasant effects associated with the sudden onset of the
sound navigational signals. The pre-signal warning feature provides
an audio and/or visual warning signal, which precedes any sound
navigational signal by a predetermined time interval. The time
interval can be selectively fixed and/or variable. Examples of
different pre-signal warning features include the following: a
controlled slow ramp up of the volume of the horn 16; a short
signal or chirp of the horn 16; a sound (e.g., tones, music,
clicks, and/or recorded or synthesized voice) sounded through a
speaker or other audio actuator that is separate and distinct from
the horn 16; a sound in accordance with Annex III of the COLREGS,
including implementing a "close quarters" warning to other vessels
of close proximity; a flashing strobe or other widely visible
light; a controlled use of existing vessel lights (e.g., cabin
lights, hallway lights, bridge lights, and/or other
non-navigational vessel lighting); and/or a visual indicator
proximate the vessels helm control panel.
[0083] The present invention also provides a method of sounding the
horn 16 by determining a setting, and based on the setting sounding
a horn signaling pattern. The setting may be based on a mode
selector 14 setting that is set to a Stopped or Underway position.
The setting may be based on a switch setting (Type-A) or the
setting may be based on a navigation light setting and series of
horn switch presses (Type-B). The method may include inserting a
delay time, preferably a random delay time, between the blast
pattern to prevent overlapping of foghorn signals on different
vessels.
[0084] The present invention also provides controller 10 that may
be retrofitted to a vessel by connecting the controller to an
existing navigation lights system and an existing horn 16. The
controller 10 determines the navigation lights setting and/or
series of horn switch presses (e.g., Stopped or Underway) and
sounds a horn signaling pattern based on the navigational light
switch settings. The controller 10 has microprocessor 12 that
determines the navigation lights switch setting, and sounds the
horn signaling pattern based on the lights setting. The navigation
lights switch setting may act as mode selector 14. The controller
10 may be mounted behind the console, and not on the vessel
console.
[0085] The present invention also provides a method of retrofitting
the controller 10 on a vessel that has connected the controller to
the existing navigational lights system, and connecting the
controller to the existing horn 16. The connection allows the
controller 10 to sound a horn signaling pattern based on the
navigation lights switch setting and series of horn button presses.
The method may also include mounting the controller 10 behind the
console.
[0086] In a further embodiment of the present invention, the
controller 10 has a way to vary the time delay between a horn
signaling pattern. For example, the time delay may be inserted by a
random number generator in the microprocessor software. The varying
of the time delay between the vessel's horn signaling pattern
greatly increases safety.
[0087] The controller 10 may include a self test mode that is
automatically activated when the controller is activated by an
attached test device. If controller 10 fails the self test, the
controller is shut off and a warning signal may be sounded, or a
warning light activated.
[0088] The present invention having been thus described with
particular reference to the preferred forms thereof, it will be
obvious that various modifications may be made therein without
departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.
* * * * *